This Design and Planning of Photovoltaic and Solar Thermal Energy Systems course equips you with the knowledge-based skills needed in the pre-installation phase. You will learn how to tailor PV system designs from the very beginning to meet the specific needs of your clients.

Whether your client’s goal is to reduce energy bills, help the environment, or simply have a reliable backup power supply, these considerations will influence how you configure and arrange system components. You will also learn to balance budget constraints and site area when sizing the system.

By the end of this course, you will have the skills and confidence to design efficient, client-focused PV and solar thermal systems, while navigating technical, financial, and regulatory considerations with ease.

With personalized coaching support, you’ll gain the confidence and practical knowledge to deliver real-world solar projects successfully.

⚡ Hands-on skills, expert guidance, and the ability to shape the future of clean energy.

This course is designed for beginners and professionals alike. No prior formal training in solar energy or electrical engineering is strictly required, but the candidate should have completed Module 1: Solar Fundamentals or have at least 2 years of professional experience in the solar sector.

Some candidates may also be considered if they can demonstrate basic knowledge and the ability to follow the course, for example by submitting their resume/CV for evaluation.

Ideal participants include:

• Students in engineering, environmental science, or sustainability

• Technicians, installers, and facility managers seeking practical solar knowledge

• Entrepreneurs, startup founders, or career changers entering the solar energy sector

• Anyone passionate about renewable energy and ready to gain hands-on skills

All you need is curiosity, motivation, and a desire to learn how to design and implement PV and solar thermal systems!

• Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion validating their knowledge and skills in photovoltaic and solar thermal system design and planning.

  This certificate can be used to:

  • Demonstrate competency in solar system design and planning

  • Enhance your resume or professional portfolio

  • Prepare for advanced training, professional development, or technical roles in the renewable energy sector

  Recognized by industry professionals, the certificate provides proof that you have acquired practical skills and expert-guided knowledge in PV and solar thermal systems.

By completing this course, you will gain the skills and confidence to design, plan, and implement PV and solar thermal systems for real-world applications.

Key Learning Outcomes

• Understand photovoltaic principles, peak power, and system components (panels, batteries, inverters, charge controllers)

• Master panel positioning, shadow effects, and off-grid system architecture

• Assess building energy needs, calculate energy consumption, and size PV systems and batteries

• Learn types of solar thermal systems, their structure, and installation best practices

• Explore solar cooling technology and plan solar water heating and pumping systems

• Coordinate with clients, authorities, and stakeholders to deliver optimal solutions

• Apply hands-on skills with expert coaching support to complete real-world projects

By the end of the course, you will be

ready to deliver efficient, client-focused solar solutions with confidence.

•  Confident in your ability to design and implement real-world PV and solar thermal systems
• Empowered to provide solutions that save energy, reduce costs, and benefit the environment
• Prepared to take on new professional challenges or launch your own solar projects
• Inspired by the impact your work can have on sustainable energy and the future of the planet
• Capable of making informed decisions and guiding clients through technical, financial, and regulatory aspects

You won’t just gain knowledge—you’ll gain the confidence and drive to create meaningful, real-world impact in the renewable energy sector.

This course  is ideal for:

• Engineers, electricians, and architects

• Project managers, planners, and technical staff

• Employees of solar companies

• Entrepreneurs, startup founders, or career changers

• Anyone with a basic understanding of solar energy as outlined in the prerequisites

Prerequisite requirement: Candidates should have completed Module 1: Solar Fundamentals or have at least 2 years of professional experience in the solar sector. Some candidates may also be considered if they can demonstrate basic knowledge and the ability to follow the course, for example by submitting their resume/CV for evaluation.

Whether you want to advance your career, start solar projects, or gain practical expertise, this course provides the knowledge, hands-on skills, and personalized online coaching to succeed in PV and solar thermal system design and planning.